Possible Effect and Mechanism of Action of Flaxseed on Cystic Fibrosis Pulmonary Disorder: a Medical Hypothesis

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) as is an inherited disorder that can result in early death. Today, for treating the pulmonary symptoms of CF-related infections and inflammations, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are widely used. However, this therapeutic approach treats the symptoms without affecting the underlying causes of the disease. Thus, the present article hypothesizes the possible mechanism of action of Flaxseed as a new complementary medication for cystic fibrosis pulmonary disorder. Material and Methods: In this hypothesis, we searched ITM textbooks such as Qanoon fi al-teb, Zakhire-Kharazmshahi, and Exir-Azam. Then, data sources including (Pub Med and Google Scholar) without time restriction from inception up to September 2020 were searched, thoroughly, for the probable mechanisms of action of this herbal medicine on CF. Results: Flaxseed probably possesses effects for cystic fibrosis, because of the following properties: Flaxseed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid that is the omega-3 fatty acid source in the vegetarian diets, and Flaxseed has anti-inflammatory effect and also contains the flavonoid compounds which affect cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator; in addition, Flaxseed has phenolic acids (ferulic acid) which affect Pseudomonas aeruginosa by having anti-Quorum sensing (QS) activities. Conclusion: Considering the mechanism of action of Flaxseed, the present study hypothesized that it can be used as a complementary medicine in the treatment of cystic fibrosis